Fans greet UNI basketball team at airport

WATERLOO, Iowa (AP) - Dozens of cheering fans greeted the University of Northern Iowa basketball team when they returned from their journey to the NCAA tournament.

About 30 fans waited for the team's return to Livingston Aviation on Saturday.

The Panthers were knocked out of the playoffs Friday night in a 59-52 loss to Michigan State.

Fans said they were disappointed by still proud.

UNI alum Joan Marchesani also welcomed the team home after their tournament run in 1990. She says she hopes to do it again soon.

Head coach Ben Jacobson thanked fans for their support.

Northern Iowa has reached the NCAA tournament five of past seven years. They moved into the round of 16 this year for the first time with wins over UNLV and Kansas.